Empire Mine Secondary Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Empire Mine Secondary Pond Dam, located in Gwinn, Michigan, is a privately owned dam on Green Creek that was completed in 1975.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 30 feet, this earth dam serves a primary purpose of "Other" and boasts a storage capacity of 5,800 acre-feet. With a surface area of 42 acres and a controlled spillway, the dam has a low hazard potential and was last inspected in September 2016, with a satisfactory condition assessment.

Managed by the Michigan DEGLE, this dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in Marquette County. Despite its low hazard potential, the risk assessment for Empire Mine Secondary Pond Dam is rated as very high (1), highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure its safety and effectiveness. The dam's location, design, and regulatory oversight make it a key component of the local water infrastructure, supporting various purposes beyond flood control and water supply.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Empire Mine Secondary Pond Dam offers a fascinating case study in dam engineering, regulatory compliance, and risk management. As part of the Detroit District's portfolio, this structure underscores the intricate balance between human development and environmental protection, showcasing the critical role that dams play in shaping water systems and landscapes. With its long history and continued operational relevance, this dam serves as a reminder of the interconnected challenges and opportunities in sustainable water resource management.

Year Completed

1975

Dam Length

850

Dam Height

30

River Or Stream

Green Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

42

Hydraulic Height

30

Nid Storage

5800

Structural Height

30

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

30
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.